The Rowsley Association

HISTORIC RAILWAY WALKS OF ROWSLEYLed by members of the Rowsley Association

Between 2006 to 2010 the Rowsley Association organised a programme of historical walks covering former railway locations in the Rowsley area. These no longer take place on pre-arranged dates, but instead will be held on an ad hoc basis to suit both the organisers and those who wish to join the walks.

In the past, the walks have started from the original station in the Peak Village Outlet Shopping Centre at 10.30am and took approximately 3 hours. That will still be the desired arrangement, although times can be altered to suit people’s travelling arrangements. If you are interested in taking part in a walk  whether you are part of a small group or an individual  please contact Glynn Waite on 0114-2364728 or send an e-mail to info@rowsleyassociation.org.uk. It is preferable that dates are arranged when Peak Rail are operating trains  you may like to take a journey as well (see www.peakrail.co.uk/Timetable.htm)  but this is not essential.

There is a charge of £3 per person for the walks, for which you will be given a 24-page illustrated guide book (pictured opposite).

Please note that those who join the walks will need to be reasonably fit and wear clothing appropriate for the weather anticipated on the day. It should also be noted that the Sidings were often subject to standing water and this may well be present, even in mid-summer.

The full walk is not suitable for disabled people. However, some parts are suitable and we will be happy to arrange specially adapted walks.

On meeting at the original station, you will be given your illustrated tour guide, which will help you understand the features that were once to be seen. The day starts with a brief history of how the railway came to Rowsley, followed by examination of the station. It will then take in the structures or sites of:-

The Midland Railway cottages on Chatsworth Road
The original Station Master’s house and other MBM&MJR cottages
The entrance to the Old Yard (filled in underbridge)
The Grouse & Claret (formerly the Station Hotel)
The Viaduct over the River Wye
Rowsley second station (1862)
The original engine shed
The Express Dairy depot
Rowsley North Junction
The former pump house
Rowsley Sidings
Rowsley South Junction
Engineer’s Sidings
Rowsley second shed (1926-1966)  new Peak Rail Shed on part of same site.
Rowsley South station

As you will see, the walk ends at Peak Rail’s Rowsley South station. You will therefore need to retrace your steps for part of the tour.